The Ho-Chunk Nation, one of Wisconsin’s two federally recognized tribes, is considering the opportunity to establish a museum, sports complex, or an entertainment facility near its casino in Madison.
Tribal representatives are currently discussing the matter with city officials and owners of neighboring venues, in order to determine how the tribe can use a 48-acre site located not far from Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison.
Missy Tracy, municipal relations coordinator for the tribal casino, stated that they could not estimate a cost for the potential project, as talks have just started.
Paul Soglin, Mayor of Madison, said that city officials are interested in the Ho-Chunk proposal and will certainly pay due attention to the project. Mr. Soglin also pointed out that more information will be revealed once the city carries out thorough examination of the site.
Last year, the Ho-Chunk hired Urban Assets, a local planning firm, to determine the uses for the property. At present, it includes two parking lots for customers of the casino and a 44-acre empty site.
Ms. Tracy said that the property in question might be developed into a sports complex, an entertainment venue, or a museum. Furthermore, the three possibilities are not mutually exclusive, and lodging and retail options might even be included.
The Ho-Chunk pointed out in a memo, sent to city officials, that Madison does not offer proper sports facilities that could serve the needs of the constantly increasing number of sports teams in the city.
The tribe also claimed it has no location where it could commemorate its heritage. This is why one of the potential uses for the above-mentioned property is the launch of a museum.
In addition, tribal officials are considering the opportunity for the establishment of an entertainment complex that would attract people from different parts of the region. The complex is to feature lodging, ecotourism options, a music venue, etc.
At present, the Ho-Chunk cannot further expand its casino but as it seems, officials are planning to make it part of a bigger development.
Natalie Erdman, Director of the Madison Department of Planning, Community and Economic Development, said that they are ready to listen to the tribe but they consider it too early to take position on any of the preliminary ideas they were presented with.
Ms. Tracy noted that the tribe is currently discussing the site plan with design firms. Then it is to move to the project’s second phase, which will include research on the future uses for the property. City officials and Ho-Chunk stakeholders will be engaged in the process.
